Nearly 46, Bernard Hopkins Could Become Oldest To Successfully Challenge For A Belt

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Bernard Hopkins could make history in tomorrow night's bout against Jean Pascal (Showtime, 10 p.m.). If he wins, he'll be the oldest fighter ever to successfully challenge for a title belt, just 28 days shy of his 46th birthday.

Hopkins, who for 10 years, and 20 title defenses, reigned as the middleweight champion, is challenging for the light-heavyweight (168 - 175 lb.) belt against an opponent 17 years his junior. Unsurprisingly, he's a heavy underdog.

Hopkins (51-5-1) is familiar with that territory. He's been the underdog for most of his fights this decade - largely due to his advanced age. In 2001 no one gave him a chance against Felix Trinidad who he defeated in a TKO. In 2006 pundits predicted he'd be victimized by Antonio Tarver. Hopkins won in a unanimous decision.

If his legs can withstand, and his experience can outwit, the lightning quick Jean Pascal, Hopkins would surpass George Forman -who was 66 days shy of his 46th birthday when he reclaimed the heavyweight belt in 1995 - in the history books. It would validate his infamous claim that he's "biologically different" than anyone else on earth.